Schools and homes 'left with no water' in west London after Thames Water power supply problem

ITV News London's Rags Martel reports.


Schools in west London have been forced to close after being left with low water pressure or no water at all after Thames Water experienced a power supply problem.

Thames Water said the power has since been restored at Ashford Water Treatment Works, the cause of the problem, and supplies should now start to return across the area.

A Thames Water spokesperson said: “We’re really sorry to customers in West London who are experiencing low pressure or no water. 

“We’re now back in power and expect water supply to return across the day. As a precaution, we’re bringing tankers into the area to support local hospitals and critical infrastructure".  

“Getting water supplies back on is our top priority and while our team work on this we’re identifying everyone in the affected area who has pre-registered with us as having special requirements, such as being medically reliant on water, so we can get in touch and make sure we give them the help and support they need.”  

At around 12.30pm, Thames Water announced power had been turned on and the issue had been remedied.

However, the company said it would take time for its system to fully refill.

In a statement, the company said: "The power supply is now back on at Ashford Water Treatment Works and supplies should be starting to return across the area.

"The issue also had a knock-on effect at Hampton Water Treatment Works, meaning a large number of customers have been affected. We’re really sorry for the worry and inconvenience this will have caused.

"We’re working hard to get things back to normal as soon as possible, but it’s likely to take some time for the supply system to refill and for water to fully return to the whole area."


Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know...